49ers linebacker Aaron Lynch suspended for first 4 games

NEW YORK (AP) San Francisco 49ers linebacker Aaron Lynch has been suspended for the first four regular-season games for violating the NFL Policy and Program for Substances of Abuse.

The NFL announced the suspension Friday. Lynch is eligible to participate in all offseason and preseason practices and games. He will be eligible to return to the 49ers' active roster Oct. 3.

''While disappointed to hear the news regarding Aaron today, we support and respect the league's decision,'' 49ers general manager Trent Baalke said in a statement. ''We are confident that he will learn from this matter and that he understands what is expected of him moving forward.''